Rotary Partnership with Bipolar UK

After three years of collaboration, Rotary Great Britain & Ireland and Bipolar UK’s partnership has come to an end, with both organisations celebrating its lasting impact in communities across the country.

The partnership, formed in 2022, has helped to reach thousands of people, both online and in person with information about vital support services and the message that people living with bipolar are not alone.

In 2024, Bipolar UK had the support of local Rotary clubs across the North East of England, when CEO Simon Kitchen, undertook a 9.5 day walk from Durham to Holy Island in Northumberland, to symbolise the 9.5 years it takes, on average, for someone to receive a bipolar diagnosis.

Dozens of Rotary clubs across the country have used the annual World Bipolar Day (March 30th) as a springboard for conversations and fundraising activities in their own communities. We hope that clubs will continue to support this awareness day in years to come.

The partnership has also given Rotary members the platform to share personal stories of the condition, either through living with bipolar themselves, or supporting loved ones.

In the March 2025 Rotary Magazine, we shared the stories of Peter, Chris and Irmine, whose personal experiences highlighted both the inspiring and devastating nature of bipolar.

Bipolar UK has travelled far and wide across the UK to engage with Rotary members at conferences and events, including with legendary songwriter and charity ambassador, Nicky Chinn, whose moving speeches about his experiences living with bipolar have inspired thought and action among diverse Rotary audiences.

Simon Kitchen, CEO of Bipolar UK, added:

“Through our partnership with Rotary, we have reached communities in cities, towns, and villages like never before.

“The power of Rotary's network, combined with the compassion and drive of its members, has been truly inspiring – both through supporting our campaigning in Parliament and by raising awareness and vital funds across the country.

“A truly valuable partnership, and I know we will remain close allies in our shared mission to support people who are struggling with mental illness.”

Get in touch

If you're interested in partnering with Bipolar UK, get in touch with our partnerships team at partnerships@bipolaruk.org